Todd Walker | First Baseman

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Recent News

The Rockies have shown interest in free agents Todd Walker and Marcus Giles, according to the Rocky Mountain News.

The newspaper speculates that the team would likely offer only non-roster invites to spring training for both players. Walker may have to settle for that, but Giles figures to get a guaranteed deal somewhere. Thu, Dec 20, 2007 10:16:00 AM

Walker was designated for assignment five days ago. He could opt for retirement if no one wants to pick him up in the near future. Thu, May 17, 2007 05:41:00 PM

Athletics designated infielder Todd Walker for assignment.

Walker remains worthy of a roster spot, but the A's didn't need him as a backup second baseman and they're better off with Dan Johnson and Jack Cust at first base and DH, respectively. Walker hit just .271/.288/.292 in 48 at-bats. Sat, May 12, 2007 02:58:00 PM

Depth Charts

Athletics manager Bob Melvin said Friday that Stephen Vogt (foot) won't catch at the beginning of the Cactus League schedule.

That's been the anticipation. Vogt also will not play first base or the outfield at all during spring training as he works his way back from foot surgery. However, the A's are just being cautious here, as they fully expect him to be ready for Opening Day. Vogt is set to serve as the club's primary catcher in 2015.

Sean Nolin (hernia) is currently throwing from a distance of 180 feet.

Nolin had offseason hernia surgery and is still feeling some tenderness, so the A's are backing off a bit. The 24-year-old hoped to be in the mix for a rotation spot this spring, but he'll now be significantly behind the other pitchers in camp. Look for him to begin the year in Triple-A.

Parker, who is now almost a year removed from Tommy John surgery, threw 43 pitches in a bullpen session Tuesday without incident. He threw fastballs, changeups, and curveballs in the session. Interestingly, he's not incorporating sliders right now and even indicated that he could come back without the pitch.

Griffin, who is working his way back from Tommy John surgery, threw fastballs and changeups. However, he also mixed in some curveballs during a flat-ground session. The A's are hopeful the young right-hander will be ready to contribute around midseason.

Sean Doolittle was encouraged by strength tests on his left shoulder Saturday.

Doolittle still isn't cleared to begin throwing, but the encouraging results could open the door for him to start throwing in the next week or two. The southpaw likely won't be ready for the start of the season, but assuming things continue to progress he should be ready to return sometime in April. Until then, Tyler Clippard will likely serve as the Athletics' closer.

Athletics placed RHP Taylor Thompson on the 60-day disabled list with a right shoulder strain.

The move clears a 40-man roster spot for reliever Chad Smith, who was claimed off waivers from the Tigers on Thursday afternoon. Thompson injured his shoulder shortly after arriving at A's camp. He had been in consideration for a bullpen job after posting a strong 2.14 ERA and 68 strikeouts in 59 innings last season at the Triple-A level.